Welcome to the latest Newsletter
We are thrilled to bring you another issue of our Newsletter about all things golf in the beautiful county of Wiltshire.
Whether you are a seasoned golfer or just starting out, this newsletter is your go-to source for the latest local golf news, events, and tips to enhance your golfing experience.
From course info and tips from the pro's, to player profiles of local golfers to upcoming open tournaments, we have it covered.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the latest Wiltshire Golf Guide Newsletter.
In The Spotlight
Has The New Handicap System Ruined Club Comps?
Golf has long been a game of tradition and skill, but with the introduction of the new handicap system, the landscape of club competitions is shifting.
What used to be a straightforward game of strokes and putts has become a battleground of opinions and frustrations
A recent tweet from Sam Mendoza has sparked conversation within the golfing community, shining a light on the frustrations of many, questioning whether the new handicap system has thrown a wrench into the workings of club competitions
TL/DR – Sam Mendoza’s tweet got people talking, claiming you need a near-perfect score just to stay competitive. Are we handing out trophies for mediocrity?
The handicap system in golf nowadays has ruined club comps. Need over 40pts stableford to compete.
The only sport where mediocrity is rewarded.
No one should ever have more than 1 shot a hole
— Sam Mendoza (@mendieGK) April 14, 2024
The handicap system in golf has always sparked debate in club competitions. But is it really changing the game for the worse?
As you see in the replies, some argue competition should be about skill and practice, not levelling the field.
Others see golf as a leisurely pursuit, not just about winning.
It’s a clash between fairness and inclusivity. While some praise the system for making golf more accessible, others fear it’s watering down the competition.
As if that wasn’t enough drama, now we’ve got the latest changes to the WHS shaking things up even further. For some it’s like trying to decode hieroglyphs figuring out your handicap these days.
The England Golf App is trying to make life easier for us. But still, you gotta double-check with the clubhouse ’cause sometimes their numbers don’t add up and in some instances the courses are not even on the APP – take South Cerney as an example
So, where does that leave us?
Well, the golfing community is split down the middle on this one.
Low index players feel like they have to break the course record to have a chance of winning and the higher players feel like they can’t compete without a big number to help them
Finding that sweet spot between fair play and friendly competition ain’t easy, but it does feel like Amateur Golf is currently rewarding mediocrity.
Upcoming Open Golf Events In Wiltshire
These are some of the Open Events taking place in Wiltshire over the next couple of months
These are just a few of the events and you can see more on our Open Golf Competitions page
The Player Profiles Series
In our Player Profiles Series, we dive into the experiences and passions of local golfers, bringing you closer to the heart of the game.
Each interview unveils the personal preferences of a Wiltshire golfer, from where they play most of their golf, to their favourite hole, their go-to clubs, a favourite post game meal and some other interesting golf related trivia
This week’s Player Profile is Piotr Ptaszek
Step onto the fairways with Piotr Ptaszek, a golfer known for his meticulous approach to the game. Piotr is a regular player at Manor House Golf Club, where he showcases his skills twice a week.
In Piotr’s bag, you’ll find a carefully selected arsenal of clubs, including Titleist irons and woods, and a Toulon Atlanta putter.
While Piotr doesn’t adhere to superstitions, he draws inspiration from the movie “Tin Cup,” finding hope in the face of adversity.
And when it comes to post-round refreshments…click through to find out what Piotr likes best…
Visit Piotr’s Profile and find out more about him
we want YOU to be part of our Player Profiles Series too!
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, we invite you to share your golf story with us.
To find out more visit the Player Profiles Series.
This Week's Featured Golf Hole
As part of our Player Profile Series we ask the Players to tell us their favourite hole from across the Golf Courses in Wiltshire, this is the choice of this week's Player.
Piotr‘s Favourite Hole is the 2nd Hole at Manor House- ‘DIPPER BRIDGE’
Par 3
BLACK 151 YARDS | WHITE 151 YARDS | YELLOW 132 YARDS | RED 118 YARDS
One of several holes that meander their way through the stunning Bybrook Valley.
A scenic par 3 that requires an accurate shot to a seemingly generous target. However, looks can be deceptive!
Hitting the green is very important as the Bybrook is awaiting any stray tee shots. The green is undulating, so very seldom will you have an easy putt.
With Out of Bounds long and bunkers guarding the front and right, this is a truly great short hole.
The Performance Zone
Each week we share a tip from a Golf Professional, Coach or Equipment specialist to help you improve your game, from Curing the Shanks to Choosing the right Driver
This week we welcome PGA Professional Richard Lawless to share some quick coaching to help you control your ball flight
Learn how to master your shot by understanding the impact of things like alignment, posture, grip, swing speed and finish position.
You can see more video coaching from Richard at the Weekend Golfers Academy
Community Spotlight
Welcome to our “Community Spotlight” segment, where we shine a light on the vibrant golfing scene here in Wiltshire.
Every week, we’re dedicated to keeping you informed about the latest happenings in the local golf community.
From charity golf days that support worthy causes to exciting Society Events where golfers come together for friendly competition, we aim to cover it all.
Not to mention, we’ll keep you updated on the buzz surrounding Captains’ drive-ins and the admirable initiatives of Captains’ Charities.
But that’s not all
we’re also here to celebrate the next generation of golfing talent with updates on Junior Tournaments.
And for those who are passionate about the latest advancements in golf technology, we’ll keep you in the loop about the launch of new golf facilities, innovative golf balls, or game-changing golf clubs designed to enhance your performance and give you that extra yardage you’ve been craving.
If you’re involved in organising an event or have some exciting news to share with the golfing community in Wiltshire, we’d love to hear from you!
Simply provide us with the details, and we’ll gladly feature your event or announcement in our newsletter and give you a well-deserved shout-out on our website.
Time For A Laugh
If you would like to have your own golf joke or video featured, just drop us a line
May Your Drives Be Long & Your Putts Be True
Thank you for joining us for this edition of the Wiltshire Golf Guide Newsletter.
We hope you found inspiration in our featured golf spots, player profiles, and expert tips.
Remember, whether you’re teeing off at a local course or honing your skills on a simulator, the joy of golf lies in the camaraderie and the pursuit of excellence.
Stay tuned for our next issue, packed with more exciting updates from the Wiltshire golfing community.
Until then, May Your Drives Be Long And Your Putts Be True!
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